Unfortunately, there is still a no better and more effective treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder than medications. Such stimulants as methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine allow people with ADHD to control their symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and distractibility. However, many researchers and ordinary people are concerned with the hidden dangers of ADHD medications and doubt that the result is worth the long-term risks. The purpose of this paper is to discuss these possible dangers and various side effects.
To begin with, the hidden risks of using ADHD stimulants among adults include high blood pressure, heart disease, and irregular heartbeat, while other medications (not stimulants) may also result in seizures. Combination medications like amphetamine, lisdexamfetamine, or dexmethylphenidate tend to speed up a patient’s heart rate and raise their blood pressure, which may lead to further problems (Bhandari, 2021). The side effect of atomoxetine (a non-stimulant drug) is linked to irregular heartbeats and seizures, so persons with a history of these issues should be careful with treating their ADHD and avoid this medication. Further, since ADHD drugs include strong substances, there is a risk of misusing them and developing an addiction, which is another possible long-term effect.
The hidden dangers of children’s ADHD medications involve completely different symptoms. For example, during the process of a medical worker regulating the dosage or the type o medication, a child may experience harmful or uncomfortable side effects. They include irritability, moodiness, tics, rebound, stomachaches, headaches, delayed growth, decreased appetite, and sleep problems (Boorady, n.d.). Some of these problems appear due to the fact that the prescribed medication works longer than necessary and interrupts other processes in the child’s organism. Another reason is that it usually takes up to a month for the body to adapt to medications, and it may react with headaches or other signs. Thus, even though ADHD medications are effective, one should be aware of the hidden dangers and decide what is best for themselves.
References
Bhandari, S. (2021). Long-term risks of adult ADHD medications. WebMD. Web.
Boorady, R. (n.d.). Side effects of ADHD medication. Child Mind Institute. Web.